How can we get a job in IT after career gap?

Are you wondering how to re-enter the IT job market after a career gap? 

Is it possible to get a job after a long career break? The answer is a resounding Yes.

But the crucial question is, are you ready for it?

If you are reading this post, it could be due to the following reasons:

• You might have prepared for government jobs earlier.
• You might have been pursuing higher education.
• You might have been working in different domains.
• You might have faced medical reasons that led to a career break.
• You might have taken on the responsibility of caring for a family member.
• You might be a married woman who needed to take care of your child.

Usually, people will get a job 2-3 years gap.

So forget about the past. There is a significant skill gap in the IT sector compared to the number of job requirements in India. The good news is that you can still secure a job in the IT industry with a decent salary.

I have personally witnessed individuals from diverse backgrounds, including BA, BCA, BSC, and MSC, working in IT companies due to the shortage of skilled employees. So, don't let your academic background deter you; opportunities await those willing to acquire the right skills and excel in the dynamic IT industry.

Getting back into the IT industry after a career gap may present challenges, but it is achievable with the right approach and preparedness. The difficulty of the transition is influenced by the length of your career gap.

For instance, if your career gap is less than 10 years, there are still viable opportunities to secure IT jobs. However, if the gap exceeds this timeframe, it may become more demanding, though not insurmountable.

Moreover, I personally believe that educational gaps or employment gaps do not significantly impact your prospects, especially at the entry-level, as long as you are willing to embrace and overcome any challenges that come your way.

Let's cut to the chase - how can we break into the IT industry?

It's essential to remember that there is a vast number of IT companies in major metro cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, and more.

In some cases, when companies are eager to hire engineers, they may be willing to overlook certain policies like age criteria, experience levels, and sometimes even compromise on educational requirements. This is especially true for smaller companies, while larger MNCs tend to adhere strictly to their policies.

To secure a position, you must prepare yourself and add value to your skillset; this will make companies more eager to hire you.

Invest in completing high-demand courses and acquiring relevant skills from online or offline institutions. Alternatively, approach consultancies for guidance and seek networking opportunities with your friends who are already employed in the IT industry. Whatever it takes, focus on making your entry into the world of IT.

Searching for jobs is essentially a process of selling yourself to potential employers. To succeed, continuously enhance your value and showcase your skills on platforms like LinkedIn, Naukri, and others.

Here are some of my suggestions:

1. Prepare an Impressive Resume: Craft a well-structured resume highlighting your strengths, experiences, and accomplishments.
2. Update Job Portals: Keep your resume up to date on various job portals to increase visibility.
3. Consistent Job Applications: Apply for jobs regularly and stay proactive in your search.
4. Leverage Social Media: Join job-related groups on social media platforms to expand your network and stay informed about opportunities.
5. Practice for Interviews: Sharpen your interview skills through practice and self-assessment.
6. Embrace Learning: Focus on building skills rather than fixating on specific technologies initially.
7. Honesty About Career Gap: Be transparent about your career gap during interviews; employers are understanding and empathetic.
8. Flexibility for Job Location: Be open to opportunities in different locations, as it may widen your job prospects.
9. Learn from Rejections: Use interview rejections as learning experiences to improve and grow.
10. Start Small: Consider starting your journey with a smaller company to gain experience and confidence.
11. Embrace Continuous Learning: Display eagerness to learn new technologies, which can help minimise the impact of your career gap.

Remember, career gaps are common, and there are solutions available for those who approach the situation with dedication and persistence. Embrace your journey, and don't let your career gap deter you from achieving a fruitful and fulfilling career in the IT industry.

I hope you find these ideas helpful in your pursuit!